April 2024 - Panel Recap
Here are some valuable takeways from our panel of experts:
When applying for funding, always do your research before meeting with the funder. Look at their website to see what projects they’ve funded in the past and at what amount. Ensure that your project is aligned with their funding priorities, and when in doubt, reach out to staff with questions.
There are many areas that foundations consider capacity funding. It’s always best to talk specifics when approaching a foundation because they all have a different definition, but here are some examples:
Grants to help execute your mission and jumpstart future growth by funding the technology, software, databases, and other infrastructure needs.
Grants to hire additional staff, which will allow you to execute your mission in an innovative way.
Grants to develop and execute a strategic plan for sustainability and growth.
Grants to allow you to build and sustain revenue growth.
Funders want to know your organization’s hopes, dreams, and fears. Share your vision in its entirety and tell the compelling story of “why” when you’re seeking capacity funding. Transparency, honesty, patience and, most importantly, relationship building, are key factors when applying for funding. Funders do not have unlimited resources so consistent and ongoing outreach is necessary to build these connections.
Be prepared to share how additional funds will be critical in removing barriers that have held back your organization’s growth. Funders want to know project details as well as expected outcomes and how you will measure success.
It’s also crucial to discuss sustainability. Funders want to explore with you how their funds will continue to impact your organization in the future. What are your next steps once you receive the funding? For instance, if they invest in a resource that renews yearly such as donor software program, how will you continue to renew the resource each year?
Always follow up with funders after the grant period is over to share the successful outcomes and the impact their grant made on the community.
Be sure to purchase tickets early for our next event! We often sell out quickly.
